Shoppers will now be on the hunt for Christmas trees and despite the increasing number of artificial ones on offer, the trend towards real trees continues to grow.

Up to eight million real Christmas trees are sold in this country every year, which means that around a third of households plump for the traditional scent of a real tree, according to the British Christmas Tree Growers Association.

Often the problem is which one to choose.

While the non-drop, reliable Nordmann fir remains the most popular seller, the Fraser fir is the one to look out for, says association secretary Roger Hay.

"The Fraser fir is now coming on to the market more in this country. It has only been grown here for around ten years, so the numbers on the market are comparatively small.

"It's dark green with a white flash under the needle, giving it impact, and it grows narrower than other trees, so is ideal for the the modern house because it takes up less floor space," he says.

He adds that when stores get these trees, they are generally the first to sell. Fraser firs should be available in most tree outlets in the run-up to Christmas, but not in such numbers as Nordmanns so if you want a Fraser fir, start looking now.

One of the most glorious attributes of real Christmas trees is their scent and if you're after an aroma which fills the room, go for the Scots pine.

"The pines hold their needles better than any other trees and yet they haven't been terribly popular other than in Manchester," Hay explains. "I have a lot of growers in North Wales who have made their living selling their trees to Manchester."

The Scots pine is much denser than other Christmas trees and the branches go upwards rather than down.

Once you have bought your tree, you need to look after it indoors to ensure it remains looking fresh and healthy throughout the festive season.

Cut trees should be fresh when purchased. The needles should not be dull and dried up. The branches should not be brittle. The outer needles should not fall off if the tree is gently shaken.

After you have bought your tree it should be kept outside in a cool shaded place, preferably standing in water, until it is required indoors. Before bringing the tree indoors cut about half an inch off the butt to open up the pores of the tree.

Mount it in a water-holding stand or wedge it in a bucket with pebbles, small stones or screwed up newspaper and place it away from direct heat. Don't put it next to a radiator and keep the container topped up with water every day.

For more information and to find a tree farm near you, visit the British Christmas Tree Growers Association website at www.bctga.co.uk or call 0131 664 1100.

Hannah Stephenson